Whether a pergola needs a permit depends on country, footprint and use. Permit-free does not mean norm-free.
Every European country has a list of minor construction works exempt from formal permit procedures. Pergolas usually fall in that category. IMPORTANT: permit-free is not norm-free. EN 1991 wind load calculation is mandatory even for permit-exempt pergolas.
Germany: 30–75 m² (varies by state). Netherlands: 50 m². Belgium: 40 m². France: 20 m² (20–40 m² requires prior declaration, > 40 m² full permit). Italy: 20 m² ('Pergotenda' category). Romania: 20 m² (urban areas only). Turkey: depends on municipality class, 10–25 m² permit-free range.
Pergolas used commercially (restaurant, hotel, public facility) require a building permit in every European jurisdiction. Structural calculation, fire-safety certificate and operating description are mandatory. The Alcodec dealer network supplies EN 1991 structural documentation for all European regions.
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